How to Deal With Insurance Companies on Car Total Claims

When you are involved in an automobile accident, an insurance company may decide your vehicle is a total loss. Your insurance company or its claims adjuster will calculate the amount of the claim. You might disagree with such calculations, so know how to deal with your insurance company when a total loss occurs.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Do your own research before accepting your insurer's first offer. Used-car prices are available on the internet, and you can determine an average price.

2. Determine the Kelley Blue Book value of your vehicle. Insurance companies are not required to offer Kelley's values, so you might get the depreciated value determined by your insurer.

3. Study the claim report from your insurance company. The report should include comparable vehicles in your area. Make a note of any listing in the report that's more than 75 miles away because this is not your market.

4. Speak politely and present yourself and your vehicle in the best possible way to your insurance company. Mention if your vehicle has never been in any other accident and that the vehicle has low mileage.

5. Familiarize yourself with the laws that pertain to your state concerning how insurance companies operate. Insurance companies are supposed to operate in good faith and deal with claims according to state laws.

Tips & Warnings

• If you think your insurance company is dealing with you unfairly, consult with an attorney and discuss your options.
• Make sure your car's value includes options such power windows and aftermarket parts that may increase its worth.

References

• Tips for Filing a Claim After a Serious Car Accident
• Dealing with your Insurance Company when your Car is Totaled